During my tenure in public service, first as a state legislator and now as a U.S. congressman, it has been painful to watch our broken immigration system prevent the great state of Texas from reaching its full potential.

The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan immigration bill more than a year ago. That bill could have passed in the House the next day and been signed into law the following day, but the House Republican leadership has refused to bring comprehensive immigration reform to the floor for a vote.

As a result, much of the public is rightfully confused about what options are available for those waiting to renew or apply for legal status. While there are many community, religious and nonprofit organizations providing legitimate immigration-related services, there is also a growing number of nonlawyers posing as legal consultants, often known as notarios, who are not licensed or qualified to give legal advice.

My congressional office has recently seen a rise in constituent-service cases for victims of notarios and others masquerading as legitimate providers of immigration services. One such victim, Daniel, allowed me to share his story.

Daniel, a Texas resident and hardworking family man who lawfully immigrated to the U.S. from El Salvador three decades ago, desired to be reunited with his family. He hoped that he could sponsor their move now that he is a U.S. citizen. Last fall, Daniel heard an advertisement for immigration services on a Christian radio station. In October, Daniel visited the self-proclaimed immigration-services provider, who said he could petition for Daniel’s daughter and promised that she would be in the U.S. by December 2014.

Six months later, Daniel is out $3,800 and had not received word from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services about his daughter’s petition. Daniel knew he should have at least received confirmation that his application was received. He contacted the notario, but wasn’t satisfied with his response. As a result, Daniel reached out to our congressional office.

Our office confirmed that Daniel’s application was never filed. He had lost six months and $3,800 and was no closer to bringing his daughter to the U.S.

Daniel’s story is not unique and is just one of thousands that highlight the need for Congress to assist immigrants who are the victims of fraudulent practices and to educate them on the dangers of service-provider fraud.

This August, I will be working with advocacy organizations and communities to gain feedback needed to create legislation that protects victims and provides our communities with the information and tools necessary to avoid falling prey to fraudulent practices.

While I continue to provide a voice for our vulnerable communities in the 33rd Congressional District in Texas, what America needs is for House Republicans in Washington to address the most dire issues facing our nation.

It is time to bring comprehensive immigration reform to the floor for a vote.